The girls and I finished the Harry Potter books last night. It was bittersweet, because, in Stella's words, "then we won't be able to listen to Harry Potter anymore."
We started listening to the entire series back in July, the first time all the way through for the girls. Brian had read to them the first 4 books way back when, Sandis re-read those same 4 last summer. We stopped at book 4 for both books and movies as that is when it gets dark. Thoughtless killing and torture just aren't pleasant topics, especially when you can't really understand how it relates to the story. And some of the twists and turns of the story are still lost on them now, how much of it would have flown over their heads then?
Overall, they did very well. They picked up on some subtle hints and foreshadowing. Understood the big picture messages. And, most importantly, thoroughly enjoyed the series. It is wonderful to share books that you love with your children. I can't wait to share more and more!
As we finished each book, they were cleared to watch the associated movie. They liked the movies, and complained, as do I, about how they differ from the book. It's good for them to see this. To know that the book is always better than the movie. Sandis remarked last night, "I wish the people who make these movies would at least read the book first!" Good girl, Sandis ;)
Next we're going to listen to Percy Jackson, which they have read, Sandis several times. Not as good as HP, from what I've heard, but the kids aren't quite ready for Lord of the Rings yet. I'm thinking The Golden Compass series should be next. Had I thought of that sooner, we would have skipped Percy Jackson! Could try some classics after that. They enjoyed Alice in Wonderland and Wizard of Oz. We'll see when the time comes...
Coble Family | January 2, 2012 at 10:21 AM
Spencer and I just did the very same thing. I think reading the book first is important to do when there is an entire series of books AND movies. Plus, I had forgotten some of the details from the last couple of books, and like you said, they are pretty intense and I wanted to be able to talk to Spencer about it. It's hard to move on from months of reading HP! Spencer has read the Tales of Beedle the Bard and is currently into The Magical Worlds of Harry Potter- A Treasury of Myths, Legends and Fascinating Facts. Way cool book that answers so many things that come up in the series. I am reading (among so many other things) the Inkheart trilogy. Sorry for the crazy long comment!
Anonymous | January 3, 2012 at 11:03 PM
that is really cool. we read wrinkle in time together. we loved the book. watched the movie and was pretty disappointed at how different the movie was. though the 2 that did not read the book really enjoyed the movie. funny. i hope you enjoy your new series as much as you did those. :)